Kenya is set to launch its first-ever oil and gas licensing round this September, with ten exploration blocks up for grabs — and all eyes will be on the National Oil Corporation of Kenya (NOC Kenya) at African Energy Week (AEW) 2025.

Leparan Gideon ole Morintat, CEO and Managing Director of NOC Kenya, will take the stage at AEW: Invest in African Energies from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town.

He will outline Kenya’s growth strategy, showcase frontier oil and gas prospects, and present investment opportunities tied to the upcoming licensing round.

“This is a historic moment for Kenya’s energy sector. We’re opening new doors for investment in the Lamu and Anza basins, backed by comprehensive seismic data and favorable terms,” said Morintat.

“NOC Kenya is ready to support global operators in unlocking our hydrocarbon potential.”The inaugural licensing round will offer ten exploration blocks selected through geoscientific analysis, aimed at ensuring a transparent allocation process.

Investors will be offered Production Sharing Contracts, and incentives include tax benefits and full access to seismic data via the National Data Center.Kenya’s revamped Petroleum Act, introduced in 2019, also adds appeal by offering a clear regulatory framework, environmental protections, and revenue-sharing mechanisms.

Morintat will highlight how this framework has transformed Kenya’s energy landscape during his participation in both panels and the event’s first-ever National Oil Company (NOC) and International Oil Company (IOC) Forum.

“Kenya is putting all the right measures in place to attract investment and fuel oil and gas development,” said Tomás Gerbasio, VP of Commercial and Strategic Engagement at the African Energy Chamber. “NOC Kenya has emerged as a strong partner for global firms.”